When can I plant lemon balm outside?

Direct sow or transplant 4 weeks before your last spring frost.

How long until lemon balm is ready to harvest?

60-70 days. Harvest leaves before flowering for best flavor; cut stems back by half to encourage bushy new growth

When to Plant Lemon Balm

Melissa officinalis

herbZones 3–9beginner

Lemony-scented perennial herb in the mint family. Makes wonderful tea and adds flavor to salads and desserts. Vigorous grower that attracts bees. Contains in garden to prevent spreading.

Planting calendar

Direct sow / transplant

4 weeks before your last spring frost.

Perennial in zones 3-9; spreads via self-seeding; remove flower heads to prevent invasive spreading

Spacing & harvest

Plant spacing: 12-18 inches
Row spacing: 18-24 inches
Days to harvest: 60-70 days
Ready when: Harvest leaves before flowering for best flavor; cut stems back by half to encourage bushy new growth

Companion planting

Plant near

Tomato — Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects

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Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns